I. Extroverts (E) and Introverts (I)

The Issue: Energy

Extroverts find energy in the outer world of things and people. The inner world of ideas, concepts, and reflection energizes introverts.

Communication Between E's & I's

When talking to extroverts:

· Be energetic
· Give lots of nonverbal support
· Focus on external things
· Keep pauses short

When talking to introverts:

· Ask open-ended questions, but not too many
· Try not to interrupt an introvert at work
· Plan for one- on- one conversation
· Request the reasoning behind an introvert's conclusions
· Give introverts notices about future assignments, so they can thoughtfully prepare
· Don't assume that an introvert's silence means disinterest, shyness, or arrogance

II. Sensors (S) and Intuitors (N)

The Issue: Information

Sensors learn through the five senses. They seek facts, details, and rely on past experience. Intuitors look for the big picture. They focus upon possibilities, theories, and global perspectives

Communication between S's and N's

When talking to a sensor
· Use an outline
· Show facts and evidence
· Have a well supported plan
· Be orderly
· Show how the future connects to the past

When talking to an intuitor:
· Give the main idea, the general scheme first

· Don't give too many details
· Have a vision
· Don't ridicule "the dream"
· Show the possibilities your ideas will produce

Intuitors, remember to finish your sentences!

A Disclaimer on Myers-Briggs

 I do not see Myers-Briggs as a proven personality theory. I see it as one among numerous conjectures on how to make sense of the diverse persons we meet. It should not confirm stereotypes, but help us be surprised at the many benign ways people make sense of life. 

A little dose of Karl Popper will set the record straight.

Personally, I find Myers-Briggs to be a very helpful model. 

III. Thinkers(T) and Feelers (F)

The Issue: How do I make Decisions

Thinkers strive to make decisions logically. Feelers depend on values and feelings.

Communication between T's and F's

When talking to a thinker:

· Don't ramble
· Don't take every thinker's statement personally
· Define your terms
· Use if-then logic

When talking to a feeler:

IV. Judgers (J) and Perceivers (P)

The Issue: How much Order do I need in my World?

Perceivers prefer to keep themselves open for more perceptions, information, data, etc.
Judgers seek closure.

Communication between J's and P's

When talking to a judger:

· Stick with a timetable
· Establish credibility as one who completes a project
· Don't equivocate

When talking to a perceiver:

· Allow time to discuss pros and cons
· Frame the discussion as an interest in new ideas.
· Allow for options and changes in the discussion
· Build milestones of accomplishment
· Say, "If not now, when?"

Four Type Clusters: Everybody Gets Prizes

SJ

GUARDIANS

VALUES:   Thoroughness and  accuracy of work

IRRITATIONS:  Violation of rules and deadlines

IRRITATING:  May fail to speak in positive ways about “small” achievements. May fail to smile. Criticism may be impersonal, sharp, and possibly sarcastic.

CONTRIBUTIONS: Brings stability and consolidation to the work place. Makes decisions.

NT

RATIONALS

VALUES: Fairness, ideas, intelligence, and good listening

IRRITATIONS: Being asked to do something illogical, or unfair

IRRITATING: May deliver criticism that seems sharp or sarcastic to others May seem to split hairs over distinctions that are not seen by others

CONTRIBUTIONS: A good architect of change

 Sees how work systems can be integrated

 Focuses on seeing principles that enable an organization to thrive

SP

ARTISTS

VALUES: Cleverness, grace in action, excitement, a flare for action, risk taking, boldness, and social support

IRRITATIONS: Being told how to work

IRRITATING: May not carry through on projects according to the time charts of others

CONTRIBUTIONS: Brings excitement to the group

 A good troubleshooter and trouble spotter, especially in a crisis

NF

IDEALISTS

VALUES: Personal recognition of the self as a person with unique talents and feelings

IRRITATIONS: Being treated impersonally, as nothing more than a job filler, or office. Personalized criticism

IRRITATING: May appear to focus too much on feelings where a task is at stake. May seem judgmental of others who do not display a similar sensitivity to people, feelings, or n interpersonal ideals

CONTRIBUTIONS: Brings communication capabilities to the job. A source of  enthusiasm, listening, and appreciation for others